Right, grab a cuppa, settle in, because today I’m diving headfirst into a topic that’s been brewing in my mind (and, let’s be honest, my garden) for ages: edible landscaping. I recently had a fantastic chat with Abigail, a local gardening guru, about how she’s transformed her patch into a veritable edible paradise, and I couldn’t wait to share her insights.
Now, before you picture regimented rows of cabbages, think again. Edible landscaping, as Abigail explained, is all about seamlessly blending your fruit, vegetables, and herbs into your existing ornamental garden. We’re talking rhubarb nestled amongst the roses, kale providing a dramatic backdrop to your perennials, and maybe even a climbing bean teepee as a focal point.
“The key,” Abigail said, sipping her tea, “is to think aesthetically from the start. Don’t just plonk your vegetables in any old space. Consider the colours, textures, and heights of your edible plants, just as you would with ornamentals.” She recommends sketching out a plan, noting where the sun falls and how the different plants will complement each other.
From Flowerbeds to Foodscapes:
So, how do you actually make the leap from flowerbeds to, well, foodscapes? Abigail suggests starting small and gradually integrating edibles into your existing garden.
- Fruit Trees: Don’t have space for an orchard? Think about espaliered fruit trees (apples, pears, or even plums) trained against a wall or fence. They look stunning and provide a decent yield. Alternatively, consider dwarf fruit trees in large pots.
- Berry Bushes: Currants, gooseberries, and blueberries are beautiful shrubs in their own right. Plant them in mixed borders amongst flowering shrubs and perennials. Choose varieties suited to your soil type and local climate. A top tip is to net the bushes when the fruit starts to ripen, otherwise, the birds will feast!.
- Vegetables: Don’t underestimate the ornamental value of many vegetables! Rainbow chard, with its vibrant stems, is a showstopper. Kale comes in ruffled and coloured varieties. Even lettuces can add texture and interest. Interplant them amongst your flowers for a cottage garden feel.
- Herbs: A must-have in any edible garden. Herbs like rosemary, thyme, and lavender are drought-tolerant and provide beautiful foliage and fragrant flowers. Plant them along pathways or in rockeries. Mint does need containing as it spreads rapidly but a pot sunk into the ground will prevent this.
Aesthetics and Functionality: The Perfect Marriage:
Abigail stressed the importance of both aesthetics and functionality. For example, she uses nasturtiums as a ground cover in her vegetable patch. They not only look pretty but also attract aphids away from her brassicas. Companion planting is your friend here! Research which plants benefit each other. Marigolds are great for deterring pests around tomatoes, for example.
Maximising Yields in the UK Climate:
Let’s face it, the UK climate can be unpredictable. But with a little planning, you can still enjoy a bountiful harvest. Abigail’s advice?
- Choose the right varieties: Opt for varieties that are known to perform well in the UK climate. Look for those labelled as “early” or “cold-hardy.”
- Extend the growing season: Use cloches, polytunnels, or greenhouses to start seeds early and protect plants from frost. Consider successional sowing – planting small amounts of vegetables every few weeks – to ensure a continuous supply throughout the season.
- Improve your soil: Healthy soil is the foundation of a thriving garden. Amend your soil with compost and well-rotted manure to improve drainage and fertility. Soil testing kits can be easily bought from garden centres.
- Pest control: Be vigilant about pest control. Check your plants regularly and take action as soon as you spot any problems. Organic methods, such as hand-picking pests and using biological controls (like ladybirds), are a great alternative to chemical pesticides. Another alternative that Abigail uses is nets that don’t need harmful sprays.
The Orangery Connection:
And, of course, we can’t forget the role an orangery plays in enhancing the enjoyment of your garden. Abigail uses her orangery as a propagation hub, a sheltered spot to overwinter tender plants, and a sunny haven to relax and enjoy the fruits (and vegetables!) of her labour, even on rainy days. She told me that the orangery extends the harvest period and increases the variety of fruits that can be grown due to the warmer temperatures.
So, there you have it. Abigail’s wisdom is a testament to the fact that growing your own food can be both beautiful and productive. By carefully selecting and integrating edible plants into your existing garden design, you can create a space that is both visually appealing and wonderfully rewarding. From fruit trees to berry bushes to vegetables tucked amongst flowers, edible landscaping offers a truly holistic approach to gardening, connecting you more deeply with nature and providing you with a delicious harvest. Think aesthetically, consider companion planting, and choose varieties suited to the UK climate. Happy gardening!
